Riding out the storm (Frankenstorm '12)

With Hurricane Sandy quickly approaching, I feel exactly like I did while awaiting the birth of my first child: You know it's coming soon and at this point nothing is going to stop it.  You have thoroughly prepared and are as ready as you think you can be.  You know you have no choice now, but to just anxiously wait for the 'big event', praying you can handle all that comes with it!

Sending positive thoughts and prayers for my friends & family weathering this storm...
~Core Chic Jodi

Well friends, here in the Northeast portion of the USA (NJ to be exact) we are anxiously awaiting the arrival of Hurricane Sandy and all of her 'friends'.  They are calling this a Superstorm: a wicked combo of multiple storms & a full moon--all the fixings of a "perfect storm".  (They've also been calling it "Frankenstorm" being it's Halloween.)  I most probably am not going to be able to blog much, if any, in the next few days as we are expected to lose power & deal with Mother Nature's cruel Halloween trick.  I must put my energy into the safety of those around me. 

I'll admit that it's tough not to stress out during a crisis such as this. In fact, I've had a bit in my stomach and have been preparing for days now!  I do that.  I go into this sort of  'maternal nesting' mode of sorts.
I also start doing things that I don't always do to burn up some of my nervous energy (and my friends joke that I always have a LOT of energy, so just imagine it times 10!)
Case in point: this morning I have been up since 4am baking and such!!  Friends trust me - I am NOT a baker!  I am thankful at this hour for the box that is easy to use and adding a few ingredients, but why am I doing this at 4am?!  I don't need to think for long as I know the answer: it's my way of mentally 'surviving' as this is a distraction of sorts.  That's my way of doing things in order to try to assemble some type of order/balance during a time of crisis. Truthfully, for me at a time like this I need to 'move' in a different way.  I need to keep busy.  We're all different so it's fine if this is not how you handle stressful situations.  Some will find exercise is their cope mechanism.  Others may find balance in meditation.  We're all different, so we'll cope differently. Even taking the time to write this blog (as the wonderful smell of my pumpkin bread bakes) is helping.   How?  It's keeping my mind 'busy', away from the stressful thoughts of this quickly approaching storm.

If you are effected by any stressful situation, be sure to take care of YOU.  You need to do whatever it is that can safely help you 'weather the storm' and survive.  Stay focused on what's important and take things one moment at a time.  Find your "destress" trigger and put it to use!

Most importantly, I'm wishing safety too all those that are in Sandy's path.  May this storm help us reflect on the things most important in life and realize not to take things for granted.  Always remember that each day IS a gift.  Please don't sweat the small stuff & do more of what makes you happy!!

Ballet Barre Toning class...it's INTENSE & EFFECTIVE!!

There are a lot of fitness trends out there today, some old, some new, some reinvented.  One that I LOVE to attend and teach is Barre Toning (also referred to as Bar...depending on where it is offered. Both are the same.)

So, what exactly is a Barre class?  No, it's not learning how to serve drinks, nor are you going to be dancing around like a ballerina!

 

 

In 1950, a former dancer named Lotte Berk devised a fitness program that used the ballet barre. Since then, there have been many barre based exercise program. Some are evolved from dance, while others are more athletic. Trust me, it'll be one of the most intense toning classes you have ever tried!


Barre is one of fastest growing workouts today due to how effectively it changes the shape of your body.  It is intelligent exercise since the technique protects your joints as it does not involve any bouncing or jumping. It's done using small, isometric, targeted movements--often with light weights. Typically done barefoot, this workout is conducted on the floor/mat, while other times at the barre.  Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretching section in order to create long, lean muscle without bulk.

 

 The workout launches a full blown attack on the areas of the body all women struggle with: abs, hips, seat, legs and arms. It defies gravity by tapering everything in and lifting it up--without adding mass.  Barre workouts develop strength, flexibility, agility and endurance to improve performance and build lean muscle. You will certainly burn fat, lose inches in weeks and have fun doing it!

 

Check out this video (shared from Fit Sugar) of some moves you can try at home, without having to use a barre.  All you need are LIGHT weights (2-3 pounds-no more!)  Please be aware of your form and posture!

http://www.fitsugar.com/Barre-Workouts-Your-Arms-Legs-Butt-23514612#ooid=k1bGk5Mzqj-1QoVKq8b56edHb_MInV3Q

 

 

 

Credits:

Fit Sugar

 

Motivate yourself and start moving!

In my fitness class early this morning we were discussing various workouts.  Some that are fad's (you know the ones: here today and gone tomorrow), others that are "fun" but you wonder just how much are you getting out of it?  Then there are those others that are killer (like a "high intensity" type class) but how safe is it if some of those participating that may not realize it's too
'over-the-top' for them?  We concluded that most workouts are good workouts, as long as done properly and where you listen to your body.

Here are some of my tips:
Step 1: Get moving!!  This may be the hardest part. If you haven't worked out in a while, just getting yourself motivated to do something can be tough.  Pick a day, put it on your calendar and do NOT take NO for an answer!  Have a friend or family member remind &/or "encourage" you--that may help keep feel a bit more "obligated" because you certainly won't want to disappoint them would you?

Step 2: Baby steps!  Don't try to run a marathon the 1st week you start working out!  You need to "build up" your fitness mojo and realize that your body needs time to adjust and get into form.  But know that you getting there is HUGE--and now that you are there, DO SOMETHING! 

Step 3: Have a friend join you!  If you are going out for a walk, have a friend join you.  Going to the gym, find a buddy to team up with.  Join a group fitness class.  Power in #'s!

Step 4:Tell yourself "I don't skip exercise!" 
Self Magazine (Oct. '12) states: if you tell yourself  "I don't skip exercise," you won't!  Nearly 80% of women stuck with their workout plan for 10 days when using the "I don't" statement before sessions, a study in the Journal of Consumer Research shows.  Experts say the word is motivating because it signals determination and empowerment! 


Whatever it takes, YOU need to GET moving and STAY moving!  It'll help your body, mind & spirit stay healthy to the CORE!

 

Source:
Self Magazine, Oct. 2012
Journal of Consumer Research

Drink up (water that is!) to lose weight

Try this recipe: 2L water, 1 medium cucumber, 1 lemon, 10-12 mint leaves. steep overnight in fridge and drink every day. (Also great for general detox--including clear skin!)

 

 

You often hear it suggested  : drink plenty of water throughout the day.  That's to keep you hydrated and healthy.  But do you also want to lose some weight?  Then keep drinking (water that is!)  According to a recent study at Virginia Tech, if you want to lose an extra 6.6 pounds a year, then you should be drinking 2 glasses of water before breakfast (note: also you can try it before every meal).  They found that people that did this consumed an average of 75 fewer calories at their morning meal that those who did not.  The studies author, Brenda M. Davy, PhD., R.D. stated "the water acted as a calorie-free appetizer.  It filled participants' stomachs, so they reported less hunger just prior to eating." 

Other research suggests water boosts metabolism because your body has to work to raise the temperature of the ingested water to match that of your core.  In one study, people who drank 8 to 12 glasses a day had higher metabolic rates than those who sipped just four!


Core Chic Jodi suggests trying to "mix it up" and add natural flavors to your water (such as berries, lemon, mint, orange, etc.)  
GET CREATIVE! See picture below for ideas:





Source:
Fitness Magazine, Nov./Dec. 2012

Motivational Monday: If not now, WHEN?

It's true friends, if not now WHEN?  It's easy to continually push something off, but that will get you nowhere!   Make TODAY the day that you are going to start whatever it is you have been wanting to pursue.  Is it a new fitness routine?  A diet?  Going for that job you have been wanting?  Even talking to someone that you've had your eye on?  Whatever it may be, YOU create your destiny--don't wait for it to happen!  So, if not now, when?  Make that day TODAY!  Power is in your hands...it'll make you feel good right to your core! 

Sunday Words of Wisdom

 

 

THANK YOU for viewing!!

Such a picture perfect Fall day here in my neck of the woods (yes, there ARE wooded areas in NJ! lol)  Very busy day with activities, but I wanted to take a moment to send out a big:
                         THANK YOU
for following my blog & your continued support!
I have now surpassed the 2000 view mark since I began this "journey" less than 2 months ago. I am enjoying every bit of the learning process, as well as your great input and ideas.  I especially love hearing how the blog has been helping you in many aspects of your life.  Again THANK YOU and let's continue to stay healthy to the core together!

Work hard & you WILL get positive results!

As a group fitness instructor nothing makes me happier then positive feedback from one of my class participants.  Today it happened twice!

First class I taught was my high/low intensity, quick "bursting" class.  Toward the end of the cardio portion, I often have them run laps around the indoor track.  I typically have them do the 1st lap as an intense sprint (to their capacity), followed by recovery walk, sprint again, recovery and so on.  I encourage them to challenge themselves on the sprints and not get lazy (I often tell them this is "their time, their workout...make it count!')  During the recovery walk one of the women said "I hate these, but keep pushing me!  It's helping my soccer game!"  After class she came to me to explain what she meant.  She told me that she plays on a woman's soccer league and they just had their first game last week. She said that she has been playing for years and has never played better--her endurance was the best ever!  She attributed this to her weekly conditioning in my class.  She said that she has totally seen how it has helped her and she thanked me for getting her there.  How great was that?  Absolutely sweet music to my ears!!

Later in the afternoon, while teaching my Pilate class, another woman came to me after class.  She was a bit older.  She said "those planks you've told me to do daily, well I took your advice and I'm doing them and Jodi I really feel the difference!  I have never moved better!....I feel so much stronger in my center, my back, the way I stand and move..."  I congratulated her and gave her a big hug!  I was thrilled!! 

WOW!  Two totally different women, two totally different type of classes--same result: they recognized the positive results their weekly workouts were doing for them and how they were now benefiting.  It took time, didn't happen overnight.  I always tell my classes that.  You cannot think that you will see results immediately, just like you won't feel the results until you've been doing them over time.

My point:  challenge yourself.  Stay focused and positive.  Don't get frustrated or discouraged--IT DOES TAKE TIME!  Once you have been doing the moves correctly for several weeks/months you will find that you have achieved something positive for YOURSELF.  No one can take that from you!  Enjoy knowing that your hard work and dedication has truly paid off in so many ways.
Here's to your health...to the CORE!

You must MAKE a change, in order to SEE a change!

In order to see a change, sometimes we must make a change.  That may be easier said then done for many of you.  All too often we get set in our ways and never "change it up".  Well you should!  By doing so you can see things in a different way.  You may learn something that you didn't realize before because you were always doing it the same way.  You must be proactive in order to get things accomplished--saying it and doing it are two different things!  By making even the slightest change you can sometimes feel better about whatever it is you are trying to accomplish whether it focuses on you, what you are doing, your job, etc.  

So go ahead--change something today!

3 Simple Rules in Life

Monday Motivation: "Your choice..choose wisely!"

Monday Motivation:  it's your choice...choose wisely!!

Head in a POSITIVE Direction

October is Breast Cancer Awareness for BOTH women & MEN!

October is Breast Cancer awareness month.  

Be proactive and be very aware of any changes

 in your body--female or MALE! 

Did you know that breast cancer not only effects women, but also men? Yes it's true! Like breast cancer in women, cancer of the male breast is the uncontrolled growth of the abnormal cells of this breast tissue. Male breast cancer is a rare condition, accounting for only about 1% of all breast cancers.

According to the American Cancer Society:

*In 2012, approx. 2,190 new cases of invasive breast cancer male breast cancer will be diagnosed among men & about 410 will die from it.

*Breast cancer is about 100 times more common in women than in men. 

*A man's lifetime risk of developing breast cancer is about 1/10 of 1%, 

or 1 in 1,000.  

*Most cases of male breast cancer are detected in men between the ages of 60 & 70, although the condition can develop in men of any age! 

(This is true!  My college sorority sister's husband had it and he is in his 40's!)

The above mentioned husband of my college friend is lucky that he caught his breast cancer early and was proactive in getting it checked and doing something about it.  Many men wouldn't.  
They live in Massachusetts and I am so proud of them for being so active in male breast cancer awareness.  In fact, on Oct 1st their family went to the MA State house for the signing of the law establishing the 3rd week of October as Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week In Massachusetts!  Many congrats to The Selsman family for being so instrumental in getting this bill passed!!  You've made a difference and brought awareness---thank you!  We know it wasn't easy!  You should be proud!


(For more info on this event please visit: http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/2012/09/29/mass-wants-men-know-they-can-get-breast-cancer/wup3QFDuRrxXH4oQxLS65H/story.html)

Here's the photo taken on October 1, 2012 of my friend Kara Selsman, her husband & sons at the MA State House with Rep's Lou Kafka and Gov. Deval Patrick signing the law making the 3rd week in Oct. as Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week in MA.  CONGRATS!!!!

Here are a few signs & symptoms of male breast cancer:
*most common is: firm, non painful mass located just below the nipple.
*there may not be other associated symptoms
*possible change in the nipple area
*possible discharge from the nipple can occur
*possible pain at the site (if the cancer has spread)

For more information please go to the breast cancer home page:
www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/breast

In loving memory of those that lost their courageous battle...in celebration of those that have conquered it...and many thanks to those that have made a difference!

XOXO,
Core Chic Jodi









Credits:  
The American Cancer Society
The Selsman Family of MA
 

The use of LEMON

Did you know using lemon has many healthy benefits?  

I like to use it in my water, but there are many other uses.  

Here are a few:

Planks with plates

This is me demonstrating planks using paper plates on NY1-TV

Want to challenge yourself when doing a plank?  Then add plates!  You can use inexpensive, paper plates by placing them on the floor and "circling" clockwise, then counterclockwise (right arm and then left).  Be sure to watch your form!  Arms remain straight, wrists under shoulders, shoulder blades pulled down the back (hint/visualization: imagine you have jeans on that have back pockets--anchor those blades into those pockets!) and keep your stomach engaged the entire time.
Keep your neck aligned with your spine. Also be sure to keep body stable and don't rock--shoulders and hips should remain squared off facing the floor.

If you are doing the right arm you should then feel the work in the right ab/oblique region (under that rib/hip area), same when working on the left.  Go slowly.  If you're new at these then I suggest you start off each side with 5-8 circles clockwise, then repeat 5-8 counterclockwise.  Repeat the sets.  As you get stronger add some more circles to each side.  These are tough, so don't get frustrated!
Good luck :)

Exercise to prevent illness

Of course we can see the positive results of regular exercise--a toned body, more energy, lower number when we get on the scale.  Yes, exercise does make you feel healthy and look healthy, but does it actually make you healthy?  You bet!

Regular exercise can help protect you from heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, non insulin-dependent diabetes, obesity, back pain, osteoporosis, and can improve your mood and help you to better manage stress.

For the greatest overall health benefits, experts recommend that you do 20-30 minutes of aerobic activity 3 or more times a week and some type of muscle strengthening activity and at least 2 times a week.  However, if you are unable to do this level of activity, you can gain substantial health benefit by accumulating 30 minutes or more of moderate-intensity physical activity a day, at least 5 times a week. 

If you've been inactive for a while, you should start with less strenuous activities such as walking or swimming at a comfortable pace. Don't push it!  Beginning at a slow pace will allow you to become physically fit without putting strain on your body.  Once you are in better shape, you can gradually do more strenuous activity.  It takes time and patience--don't rush it!

Here are examples of the importance of physical activity and your health:

*It strengthen our immune system due to:
   -Improved circulation (studies show aerobic exercise improves circulation, strengthening the heart to pump larger quantities of blood through our bodies)
   -Improved lung capacity (exercise causes us to breathe faster, more efficiently transferring oxygen from our lungs to our blood)
   -Sweat production (as we exercise, we sweat to help regulate our rising body temperature)

*Reduces the risk of dying prematurely

*Reduces risk of diabetes
*Reduces risk of developing high blood pressure
*Reduces feelings of depression & anxiety
*Helps control weight
*Helps build & maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints
*Helps older adults become stronger & better able to move about without falling
*Promotes psychological well-being

Remember: whenever you are starting a new fitness program and have been inactive for a while, you should consult your physician prior.  Start slowly and don't do anything that "doesn't feel right".  If you experience any unusual pain or problems, please consult your physician IMMEDIATELY!

Stay healthy to the CORE!  
Core Chic Jodi

Live better: learn to "STOP & START"

Want to live better?  

Then you need to "STOP & START":

Motivational Monday (weekly motivational tip)

Motivational Monday "tip of the week":

YOU can help boost your next Group Fitness class! Here's how...

 

Many people attend a Group Fitness class because they feel the teacher and other class participants motivate them.  As an instructor, as well as a participant at times, I fully agree!  Some days you're just not in the mood to workout but you get to that group fitness class, feed off the energy of the teacher, music and other participants and leave feeling like a winner knowing you accomplished it.  You feel great!  

Want to know how to make your fitness class even better?  Here's a little secret: you know how YOU feed off the instructor's energy, well guess what?  He/she feeds off of YOU as well!   
Here's my tip: before the class starts say something positive or encouraging to him/her.  It acts as a little "jump start" and energy boost!  The reason I feel it works: most instructors became instructors not only because they enjoy working out and the fitness benefits for others, but they truly love making others feel great!  Trust me, I know it works for me as well as my co-workers!  Who doesn't like to get positive feedback!?  No matter what job you do, when someone says something encouraging and positive to you doesn't it make you feel good?  It most certainly puts an extra bounce in your step!

Here's a personal example of how I was energized yesterday prior to my Hi/Lo Interval Training class: a female participant came to me and told me how during last weeks class she didn't think she could do the high, quick bursting jumps we were doing. She said she surprised herself by actually doing them. She went on to say that she was so excited she told her friends over the weekend how proud she was of actually accomplishing it!  Guess what? I felt great hearing that!  Just because I had encouraged her during class to go above and beyond what she thought were her limits, she actually accomplished it & was now proudly bragging about it (as she should!  She worked hard and earned the bragging rights!)  As her instructor, I loved hearing that she felt that way from my class.

Another example occurred the week prior.  I had told this same HIIT class that we would be going out onto the track toward the latter part of the class to do some quick, bursting sprints.  One (older) woman said to me "this is my first time in this class.  I didn't realize you went onto the track.  I don't run.  I don't think I can do it...."  I told her to modify the sprint to a quick walk if she felt uncomfortable--that it wouldn't be a problem as she needed to focus on only "herself" and not what the others were doing.  So that day I noticed she added a quick little sprint here and there, working to her capacity.  After class I congratulated her and said I knew she could do it. The following week she was back!  I was glad to see she was giving it another try (and that I hadn't "scared" her away lol).  Before class she came to me and said "I'm back!  Are we doing the track today?"  I answered yes.  She said "great because I am ready to challenge myself a little more today.  I never thought I'd actually say that and I really never thought I could do it!"  Well that was music to my ears!  And let me tell you, during that class I was on fire!  They got such a high charged workout because I was energized prior from this woman's words.  Really!  It motivated me just as much as someone that takes my class waiting for me to motivate them!

My point:  we are all human.  We all look for encouraging, positive words in the jobs we do--they can truly make someones day that much better.  Take the time on occasion to go up to your instructor and say a kind word or mention how you enjoy their class.  I am certain it will go a long way and it'll be a win/win for everyone!

How to be Successful (in life & work)

Know your Heart (heart attack symptoms)

Would you know if you were having a heart attack?  Probably seems like a crazy question & I bet your 1st response is "of course I'd know"!  However, many symptoms are NOT as "classic" as you'd think!

Did you know that heart disease remains the #1 killer in the US and #4 in the rest of the world? 16-25% of people with heart attacks do NOT have chest pain.
This is especially true in women and diabetics.

Classic symptoms include:
*Pain behind the breast bone with radiation down the left arm accompanied by sweating, nausea and occasional vomiting.  
*Sweatiness is also one of the more common symptoms, often along with clammy palms.
*Pain in 1 or both arms, shoulders or back.   
*Shortness of breath.
*Intense anxiety.
*Racing heartbeat that appears for no reason.

It's very important to be aware of other less common symptoms:

*Sleep disturbances & fatigue associated with a heart attack can come on suddenly or gradually over a period of days and can range from mild to severe.
*Indigestion which is usually accompanied by other symptoms including chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, sweatiness and pain or tightness in the arms, neck, upper back, or jaw.
*Lower jaw pain can be a telltale sign of a heart attack.  However it is rarely the only symptom.  Often it is accompanied by sweatiness, fatigue, shortness of breath and pain or discomfort in the neck, shoulders and chest.
*Dizziness or feeling lightheaded since during a heart attack, blood flow to the brain is restricted.  Also feelings of euphoria &/or disorientation.

It is also important to note that many have NO SYMPTOMS AT ALL!  A recent sturdy in Massachusetts found that about 25% of heart attacks were only discovered later during routine exams, because they gave off  NO WARNING SIGNS!  It is important to discuss with your physician your risk factors.

BE SURE TO KEEP ASPIRIN HANDY!!  If you even think you are having a heart attack take an aspirin and call 911 IMMEDIATELY!  You have NO time to waste here friends.  You must ACT FAST!  I now carry a few aspirin with me at all times "just to be safe".  I keep some in my car, at home, in my purse and in my gym bag.  You NEVER know when you or someone else may need it. 
 
*FYI:
You can determine your 10 yr cardiac disease risk at:  
https://www.heart.org/gglRISK/locale/enUS/index.html?gtype=health
 





Source:  www.heart.org

What sport can help improve your endurance on land, your overall health & knows no boundaries? SWIM!!

get in and SWIM!!

As a kid, I'd spend hours in my parent's pool not just swimming, but running.  I'd run "laps" in the water as if it were a track.  Who knew 30 years ago I was actually "onto something"?
According to this month's Shape Magazine (Oct. 2012) and a recent study from India "2 months of deep-water running (1 hr, 3 times a week) significantly improved endurance on land."
Furthermore, according to Patrick Milroy, M.D. and author of Running Anatomy "the water acts as resistance which then increases the intensity of running and the challenge on the quads, glutes and core."  Shape Magazine states "the best way to get this workout is to put on a flotation belt or hold a foam noodle behind your back while in deep water "jog" by bringing your knees no higher than your hips and kick your rear forward toward your butt".

Swimming works your whole body.  It improves cardiovascular conditioning, muscle strength, endurance, posture, and flexibility all at the same time. Your cardiovascular system in particular benefits because swimming improves your body’s use of oxygen without overworking your heart.  It is good to note, according to Mat Leubbers (About.com Swim Guide): "swimming does burn calories at a rate of about 3 calories a mile per pound of bodyweight. If you weigh 150 lbs. and it takes you 30 minutes to swim one mile (1,760 yards or 1,609 meters), then you will be using about 900 calories in one hour. However, many swimmers do not swim that quickly, and many cannot swim for that distance or duration, so swimming to lose weight is not always the best plan. Yet swimming does exercise almost the entire body - heart, lungs, and muscles, with very little joint strain."
 
Following are some other benefits of using the water as your workout tool:

*Low-impact exercise: So many different people can really benefit by swimming. Pregnant women, the elderly and those recovering from injury all can use the pool to their benefit.  Years ago while recovering from my car accident, I used the pool as my "therapy" since it was low impact and truly the only exercise that really didn't hurt while doing it.  It really helped my stiff muscles and it was not weight-bearing.  Then when I was pregnant with my kids, being in the water was a heavenly exercise routine for me and it felt great taking that added pressure from the weight of my growing belly off my feet!

*Improve blood pressure: Studies have shown that a workout routine that includes swimming can help reduce and possibly prevent high blood pressure, which lowers your risk for heart disease and stroke.

*Stress reduction:  Water is relaxing and naturally soothing.  It can really be great for your mental health!  It can help you focus better and clear your head.

*Knows no boundaries:  Swimming can be a lifetime sport--old, young--anyone can benefit.  You don't have to be in top physical shape and can be any level to do it.


 ....“Swimming is the closest thing on this earth to a perfect sport,” writes Dr. Jane Katz, a pioneering swim fitness promoter and educator.  So take the plunge and start swimming for your overall "core"  health and your endurance on land!



Sources: 
Shape Magazine, Oct 2012
About.Com

"Motivational Monday" tip of the week: YESTERDAY you said tomorrow!

"Motivational Monday" tip of the week:

....

                                                                      (Courtesy: Nike)

It's Monday, the day many dread because it typically means "back to work" (whether your work is in an office, on the road, at your home with the kids, etc).  Instead, look at it as a new beginning.  Today's the day you are going to start fresh, leave the past week behind and do something that you said you would and just haven't yet.   
For example: did you say you'd start working out and haven't?  What are you waiting for?  Have you thought about trying a new fitness technique and never did, well do it!  Or maybe you said you'd try a new diet or food plan--well this is that week!   Whatever it is get going and give it a try!  


*Core Chic Jodi's Motivational Monday tip of the week: 
If yesterday you said tomorrow, well today is that day!!